Kennet Eichhorn: Why Man Utd, Real Madrid & Barcelona are all interested in Hertha Berlin's 16-year-old Toni Kroos regen

Hertha Berlin, once buoyed by billionaire Lars Windhorst's 2019 investment and ambitions to become a major European club, suffered relegation from the Bundesliga in 2023. Despite a subsequent takeover by 777Partners, the club struggled in the 2. Bundesliga, narrowly avoiding another relegation in the 2023-24 season.

The appointment of manager Stefan Leitl provided stability, guiding the team to mid-table safety and now into promotion contention. A key factor in this turnaround has been Leitl's bold integration of 16-year-old midfielder Kennet Eichhorn into the first team.

Eichhorn, born near Berlin in 2009, displayed exceptional talent and leadership from a young age at his local club, SV Muhlenbeck. He joined Hertha Berlin's youth academy in 2017, quickly rising through the ranks and winning individual accolades, including Player of the Tournament at the 2024 Pape Cup.

Due to midfield injuries, Leitl invited the then-15-year-old Eichhorn to first-team pre-season training in summer 2024. Impressed by his rapid physical and tactical development, Leitl fast-tracked him into the starting lineup once he turned 16, where he has since become a regular starter and a fan favorite.

His performances have reignited belief among Hertha supporters and earned him a call-up to the German U-17 national team. His rapid rise has also attracted reported interest from major European clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.